THANK YOU 2025 SPONSORS!

 

BACK FOR A 2nd YEAR… AND EVEN BETTER!

More Awards. More Local Business Owners. More Breaking News!

Come meet local entrepreneurs, investors, community leaders, and learn what is working for small businesses in Columbia, what is trending for the region, and be the first to hear about new funding, projects, and small business initiatives coming to our river town.

  • Networking & Connecting with food and drink

  • Local and Region Leadership Represented

  • Pop-up Grant Money Giveaway AT THE SUMMIT!

  • Breaking News for Small Business Owners

  • NEW: Small Business Owner Panel Discussion featuring:
    Hamid Selami, Owner, Elvan Investments LLC 
    Shawn Yohe, Owner, Keystone Family of Businesses
    Justin & Rachel Boccagno, Owners, Double Nickels Automotive, LLC
    Crystal Weaver, Co-Founder, Prince St Cafe

 
 

Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC)

Columbia, Pennsylvania — November 15, 2025

CEDC Celebrates a Successful Annual Small Business Summit, Honors Longtime Board Member Mike Martinelli

The Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) proudly hosted its annual Small Business Summit this week, bringing together entrepreneurs, community leaders, and local business owners for a day of inspiration, collaboration, and practical insight. Held once again at the National Watch and Clock Museum, the summit drew a strong turnout and continued the tradition of empowering Columbia’s business community.

A highlight of the event was the CEDC board’s formal resolution recognizing Mike Martinelli for his 20 years of dedicated service to the organization and to the economic vitality of the Columbia region. Martinelli’s leadership, passion, and vision have shaped two decades of progress, and the CEDC expressed deep gratitude for his longstanding commitment.

This year’s summit also featured a dynamic panel discussion focused on empowering entrepreneurs, with leaders from across industries sharing strategies on growth, resilience, and innovation. Attendees walked away with actionable ideas and renewed enthusiasm for building a thriving business environment in Columbia. We want to thank Shawn Yoe, Rachel and Justin Boccagno, and Hamid Selami

The CEDC extends sincere appreciation to the National Watch and Clock Museum for generously opening their space once again to host the summit. Their continued partnership plays a meaningful role in the success of this annual gathering.

The event was made possible through the generous support of several community partners and sponsors. The CEDC offers heartfelt thanks to:
Launch Kits, Kleen Rite, The Elks of Columbia, The Owls of Columbia, Forster’s, and Sunsnappers.
Their commitment to strengthening local businesses helps fuel economic growth throughout the region.

The Columbia Economic Development Corporation remains committed to fostering opportunities, supporting small business success, and building a vibrant future for Columbia and its surrounding communities.

 

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

What to Expect

The Columbia Economic Development Corporation is in its 21st year of helping Columbia’s business sector become a thriving place for small and large businesses to thrive. The Columbia Small Business Summit is a fresh, exciting, small-business-owner focused event that will give key insights into what has been working for current owners, as well as current regional and local trends in consumer habits and tourism. The Small Business Summit will also feature grants, awards, and pop-up $500 grant giveaways ON THE SPOT* during the Summit!

We are featuring local leaders and regional leaders who will be sharing tips, trends, and breaking news for the year ahead.

(*You must be present and a small business owner in the Borough of Columbia to be eligible to win.)

ATTEND NEXT YEAR!

November Date TBD

6pm | NATIONAL WATCH & CLOCK MUSEUM

6pm Doors open for networking and food & drink

  • 7pm Small Business Summit Event

  • NEW IN 2025: Small Business Owners Panel, Awards & 300th Anniversary News!